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2 Days in Edinburgh: The Best Things to See & Do

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2 Days in Edinburgh: Best Things to Do

Ready to spend 2 days in Edinburgh? Yessssssss, you’re making the best choice ever regarding your travels.

I’m obsessed with Scotland, ya’ll. Absolutely obsessed. It’s my favorite place in the world to visit for many reasons.

Scotland’s safe and beautiful with great tourism infrastructure in place to help visitors. You’ll experience epic hikes, warm and kind people, and a rich culture.

Not to mention, Scotland is the home of Harry Potter! (Don’t judge me).

Anyway, you can’t visit Scotland without starting in Edinburgh – which is a UNESCO City of Literature and dream come true especially for book lovers around the globe.

So, in this “2 Day Edinburgh Guide,” I’m going to break down my favorite things to do, as well as give you suggestions on accommodation.

Without a doubt, Edinburgh is a magical city and as I’ve said, it’s a fantastic place to start your vacation in Scotland.

However, as much as I adore Edinburgh’s winding Diagon Alley streets, Scotland’s true majesty resides in the epic Highlands.

I mean it, folks. Photos can’t do the scenery a justice. You need to experience Scotland’s countryside in person.

The Real Beauty of Scotland

In my personal opinion, if it’s your first trip to Scotland, then trust me, a weekend in Edinburgh is enough time to acquire a taste of the city and decide whether or not you want to come back for more later.

Instead of spending all your time in Edinburgh, you want to dedicate the bulk of your itinerary to Scotland’s spectacular nature.

Furthermore, Edinburgh’s main attractions are all within walking distance of each others. It’s not a gigantic city like London or Paris. For example, I don’t think I took public transportation once with the exception of going to and from the main airport.

2 days in Edinburgh is a wonderful starting point for your trip. No worries.

How to Get to Edinburgh

As you probably know, the vast majority of overseas travelers will come to Edinburgh through the main international airport. Fortunately, reaching Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns is a simple journey!

I think the easiest way to reach Edinburgh is to take the Airlink 100 express bus which takes passengers right to Waverley Bridge.

In addition, the bus runs on a 10 minute schedule, so you don’t have the run through the terminal, freaking out because you’ll think you’ll miss your next bus.

Without traffic, the Airlink Express only takes about 25 minutes. Be mindful of rush hour, though. Edinburgh’s traffic is scarier than it sounds. Trust me. I live in New Jersey, the most densely populated state in the US, and even I was surprised at how bad Edinburgh’s traffic was.

Carefully budget your time.

2 Days in Edinburgh: Start with the Royal Mile.

2 Days in Edinburgh: Your First Full Day

Time to get into the itinerary itself! Woohoo! I already know you’re excited and ready to go.

So, for your first day in Edinburgh, I put the majority of the focus on the core of Edinburgh’s Old Town.

Is the Old Town a bit touristic? Yes. Yes, it is. However, since you’re a tourist, I already know that you will fall in love with the charming buildings and delicious pubs.

Onward.

1. Visit the Famous Edinburgh Castle

Haha, I’m sure some of you aren’t surprised by this starting point.

After all, Edinburgh Castle is the most popular attraction in the entire city, so it makes sense to start here. Not to mention, it’s a smart idea is visit in the morning before all the crowds descend upon the castle and clutter up all the best views.

At Edinburgh Castle, you’ll see the exquisite Crown Jewels, as well as some of the loveliest views of this charming city. Go to the batteries for pictures. More highlights include the Great Hall, the Dog Cemetery, and Scottish National War Memorial.

Depending on your interests, you can spend well over two hours at Edinburgh Castle, so come in with a plan for your visit.

2. Have a Whisky Adventure!

Want to give your taste buds a special treat now that you’re finished with Edinburgh Castle and its intensive history? Well then I have awesome news for you. Scotland’s also famous for its fantastic, fantastic whisky.

The Scotch Whisky Experience has a variety of tours available depending on your interest level. For example, the cheapest tour, the Silver Tour, consists of a viewing of the world’s largest whisky collection and a whisky barrel ride that teaches you all about whisky production.

3. Stroll along the Royal Mile

You need to take a nice walk the entire length of the Royal Mile in Edinburgh’s Old Town.

Not sure what the Royal Mile is? No worries! I have you covered. Basically, the Royal Mile is the main thoroughfare that cuts through the center of Edinburgh’s Old Town. You can easily reach one end to the other.

You’ll encounter some of Edinburgh’s most iconic buildings along the Royal Mile such as St. Giles’ Cathedral and the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Take your time seeing all attractions that pique your interests.

Now, fair enough, the Royal Mile might be packed with tourists, but regardless of crowds, this main street is still a “classic” Edinburgh experience, and you shouldn’t miss it especially if this is your first vacation to Scotland.

4. Grab a Pint at The World’s End Pub

Unsurprisingly, Edinburgh is home to several wonderful historical pubs. Pub culture is a big part of social life in the United Kingdom, and therefore, worth experiencing in person.

My favorite pub in Edinburgh is called The World’s End.

And luckily for you, The World’s End is conveniently located right off the Royal Mile.

Inside, the pub has an old fashioned feel ranging from its cosy bar stools to the bank notes adorning the walls behind the bartenders. The World’s End is a great place to take a break from all the hustle and bustle of the day.

5. Get Lost in the Old Town

Honestly, one of the best parts of visiting Edinburgh is closing your guidebook and exploring the Old Town and surrounding areas. For instance, I like stepping into the tiny alleys without much of a specific plan in mind and simply soaking in the city’s atmosphere.

As for specifics, arrange the remainder of the day according to your personal interests.

Do you love museums, for example? Then go to the nearby National Museum of Scotland. This museum focuses on Scotland’s incredible history and culture. You can even see Dolly the Sheep, the first mammal ever cloned from an adult cell.

Another one of my favorite things to do in Edinburgh’s Old Town is explore Greyfriars Kirk’s graveyard. Here you’ll see the final resting place of the real “Tom Riddle.”

Regardless of what you decide to do, treasures lurk around every corner of Edinburgh’s Old Town. You’ll fall in love with this place.

6. Take a Spooky Adults Only Ghost Tour

Edinburgh is supposedly the most haunted city in the United Kingdom. So why not do something scary like a ghost tour in the city’s endless underground vaults?

Personally, I think the best ghost tours are 18+, because honestly, some of these stories are so grisly that children shouldn’t listen to them. However, Edinburgh has ton of ghost tour options available for families, as well.

As for me, I went on a night ghost tour that took us down into the the Blair Street Vaults, which used to be a hot spot for all sorts of criminal activities. The vaults are pitch black and cramped, so if you’re claustrophobic or afraid of the dark, then this might not be the tour for you.

2 Days in Edinburgh: Your Second Full Day

We’re going to branch a little bit outside of the Old Town for your second full day in Edinburgh. Although, let’s be real here, the Old Town is amazing so we’re going to return again later in the evening, haha.

I hope you packed your best hiking shoes. Because you’re going to embrace the outdoors on day two!

Let’s go!

1. Take a Morning Hike to Arthur’s Seat

Time to break out your hiking boots. Even staying in Edinburgh, you’re still able to experience Scotland’s rough and beautiful nature wonders.

Arthur’s Seat is located at the very end of the Royal Mile, and this “mountain top” is technically the highest point of an extinct volcano. Pretty awesome, huh?

It takes about an hour to reach the summit of Arthur’s Seat. Perhaps less time if you’re a super fast hiker – which I am totally not, haha. Make sure to enjoy the sweeping views upon reaching the top of the summit.

2. Ready for More Exercises? Stroll to Carlton Hill

Yes, we have more hills on the agenda for your second day in Edinburgh. Again, did you pack sturdy footwear?

Calton Hill is included in the city’s UNESCO World Heritage Site. And it’s so easy to understand why.

After all, upon reaching the top, you’ll feel as if you’ve teleported to Athens with the acropolis jutting into the skyline. You’ll have some of the greatest views of the National Monument, as well as an imposing shot of Edinburgh Castle.

Afterwards, roam the vibrant area surrounding the hill. You’ll encounter shops, bakeries, and the Edinburgh Playhouse.

3. See Edinburgh’s New Town Landmarks

In addition to the Old Town, you’ll also want to spend some time wandering through Edinburgh’s New Town. I know, I know. Creative names, right?

Anyway, the New Town isn’t all that new. Planning and construction originally began in 1767, and many of the buildings still have the original (and gorgeous) Georgian architecture.

The most well known attractions in the New Town include the Scott Monument, Princes and George Street for some shopping, the fancy Georgian townhouses, and more!

Got 2 Days in Edinburgh? Don’t Miss Dean Village!

4. Explore Scenic Dean Village

Are you ready to see the most beautiful part in all of Edinburgh? Make sure your camera is charged, because now you’re going to Dean Village.

You’ll feel as if you’ve left the big city and entered a bucolic farmer’s village with several streams and splendid greenery. The village is located right on the Water of Leith, so it truly feels like an oasis and it’s easy to waste hours here simply relaxing.

As far as I know, Dean Village has no major attractions, but it’s the perfect place to explore and take photographs.

5. Eat at Edinburgh’s Most Romantic Restaurant

It’s time to return to the Old Town for dinner. Unsurprisingly, Edinburgh has a lot of wonderful restaurants available for you.

However, for this particular dinner, treat yourself to an extra special feast. And don’t worry about your wallet either. Ahem.

Angels with Bagpipes is one of the loveliest establishments in Edinburgh. Eat a fine meal surrounded by 16th century lush decor. This restaurant also sources fresh Scottish ingredients, so you know your dinner is entirely local to the area.

6. Have a Sip of Tea at Elephant House

Want a spot of tea and dessert after your decadent dinner? Then go to Elephant House!

Now I know that some debate exists over whether or not J.K. Rowling really wrote her first drafts of Harry Potter at Elephant House, but it’s still a classic Edinburgh establishment.

Once you drink your tea, you need to check out the bathrooms and read all the testaments to J.K. Rowling and her contribution to literature.

7. Go Underground Again at Mary’s King Close

Last but not least, Mary’s King Close is one of my favorite experiences for 2 days in Edinburgh.

This close is underneath the Royal Mile. You’ll walk through very narrow and dark streets, and hear all about life in Edinburgh at the time of the Great Plague. Hundreds were bricked up and left to die in their homes – which is absolutely horrifying and makes me appreciate modern medicine.

2 Days in Edinburgh: Where Should You Stay

Last but not least, you need to decide where to stay for your 2 days in Edinburgh.

Scotland isn’t exactly a cheap destination and Edinburgh is more expensive by default, being a major city and tourist destination. The pound makes accommodation even more expensive, especially if you’re coming from the USA, Canada, or Australia.

Rachel Elizabeth

At 22, I took my first overseas trip to Bermuda. Took a break to follow the "American Dream." Had my self-esteem broken. Embarked on my first solo trip to Scotland at 26. The travel bug dug its way under my skin. I now book multiple trips a year.

My name is Rachel Elizabeth. I’m an English teacher and voracious reader who takes solo trips around the world. So far, I have been to 20 countries and have many more trips planned. Not to mention, I’ll travel in my own backyard (also known as New Jersey and New York) whenever possible. As a person, exploring is what I do best. Did I mention I’m terrified of flying? I might have picked the wrong hobby! But I’m living proof that you can follow your dreams even if they happen to scare you.

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